Sometimes I get visual chaos anxiety. I just want to tackle the dishes. Let’s be real, because sometimes dishes are easier than people.
Sometimes I want to clean because it gives me a sense of control and purpose. I feel like I am actually accomplishing something worthwhile.
Sometimes I bark at my children for not cleaning to my standards or at my pace.
Sometimes, I come home and feel overwhelmed by all the work I need to do.
BUT
Sometimes the dishes can wait. There will always be dishes. And dirty dishes are evidence of those I treasure being in our home. Memories made; piled high in my sink. If I get too obsessed with cleaning, I may miss heart-shaping, golden hour, people loving, opportunities.
Sometimes I have to let go of my perceived “control.” I have to stop half-investing in others because I am distracted by tidying up.
Sometimes my children just need my redirection and help. My expectation should be excellence but I cannot force results and manufacture heart change. I can only encourage, highlight the benefits of a job well done, and let God work.
Sometimes messiness is just weakness. I need to remember they are people, and children. Therefore, they are in process. And don’t know what they are doing 🙂
Sometimes I am overwhelmed because I am trying to be God. I lack composure because I am not quieted in my soul.
Sometimes I forget dishes done or not done or rooms clean or not clean are not the point.
Faith working through love is.
Love MAY look like cleaning tonight. Yes.
Or love MAY mean sitting in the mess while I listen. Ask questions. Snuggle. Drink tea. Take interest. Go on an adventure. Cry. Laugh. Read. Pray. Enjoy God. Enjoy others. Not through earnest activity, but in just being….still.
The work will be there tomorrow….and the next day….and the next.
Your messy little (or big) people won’t be.
1John 3:20
for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.
Luke 10:41-42
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
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